Character traits are the special qualities that make a character in a story unique and interesting.

How a text relates to a reader, another text or the wider world can be called a connection.

A recommendation is a suggestion for a text that is well-suited to a reader’s age and their interests.

Developing responses to 'Cloud Busting' through rich discussions

English

Developing understanding of 'Cloud Busting' through rich discussions

In 'Wonder: book club’, pupils read a text that discussed themes of acceptance and friendship. In ’Cloud Busting: book club’ pupils will read and explore a verse novel that discusses similar themes and also presents different character's perspectives of an event. 

In this unit, pupils explore and discuss the verse novel, 'Cloud Busting'. They will identify the features of verse novels and the range of poetic forms used by the author. Finally, pupils will discuss the characters in the text and develop a personal response.

'Cloud Busting': book club

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of distress or humiliation e.g. bullying.

Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying

the special qualities that make a character in a story unique

how a text relates to a reader, another text or the wider world

a text that is well-suited to a reader’s age and interests

Match the following keywords to their definitions.

True or False? 'Cloud Busting' contains both fixed verse and free verse poetry.

regrets something that has happened to his friend, who he misses

does not pay much attention in class or assembly

has just joined the school; he is described as 'anxious' and unsure

At the beginning of the text, what are each of the following characters like? Match their name to the most suitable description.

lonely but recognises the positive effect that his friend had on him

still remains popular; is remorseful for what happened to Davey

has left the school without saying goodbye to anyone

By the end of the text,  what are each of the following characters like? Match their name to the most suitable description.

True or False? The narrator in 'Cloud Busting' is unreliable.

What is the name of Sam and Davey's teacher in 'Cloud Busting'?

Which poetry form is the focus of chapter 3?

Who is the illustrator of 'Cloud Busting'?

The first snowflake brought pure joy to Andeep.

Despite the fear gnawing at her, Sam spoke her mind and confronted the injustice

A melancholy melody evoked bittersweet memories for Sofia.

A compliment lifted Izzy's spirits instantly.

Which sentence shows someone who is courageous?

Sam is aware of Davey, a new pupil. Davey gets the nickname 'fizzy feet'.

The bully picks on Davey and posts comments about him around school.

Sam finds out about Davey's allergy to peanuts. He shares this with Alex.

Order the following events from 'Cloud Busting'. 

Developing responses to 'Cloud Busting' through rich discussions

Lesson outcome

Content guidance